It’s no secret that people frequently form opinions about other people based on their clothes. Some of you will argue that you should be evaluated on your accomplishments or who you are rather than something as shallow and meaningless as your attire. The fact is we all judge – and are judged on appearance, this is especially true at work.
Business casual is the default at many work places, but no matter how casual your place of business, skewing more casual than professional can cause you to be passed over for promotions or be paid a lower salary than your well-heeled counterparts. It has also been shown that customers are more comfortable working with someone who dresses professionally.
Now, I’m not saying that you can’t show your personality or have to wear a suit to get ahead, but there are some basic dress-for-work rules every guy should follow:
The fits the thing – Dressing well doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Buy styles that compliment your build, buy the right size and get them tailored if you need to. It doesn’t cost much and your tailor can make sure your clothes look good on you.
Tuck in your shirt – Don’t wear your shirt out to hide your gut. Wearing your shirt tucked in makes you look more pulled together. Your outed shirt is like a bad toupee…it isn’t fooling anyone. If you’ve got a little in the middle just own it.
Don’t wear baggy pants –There’s simply no excuse for pants that are sagging so far down they’re giving everyone a view of your half-moon or tattered hemlines that are dusting the floor.
Stick with classics like crisp button down dress or chambray shirts, wrinkle-free tees, classic jeans and dress pants and don’t forget about a timeless style shoe. It’s hard for a man to look bad in any of these things.
If you’ve got a ‘thing’ for hats, bow-ties, bracelets or cufflinks go for it! Don’t be afraid to show a little personal flair. Just make sure you don’t go overboard – A scarf or understated necklace is great, Cee-lo Green style bling…not so much.
Next week: tips for the ladies